Vacation like a local and make your next getaway one to Europe's summer mountain resorts or charming lakeside villages. Recharge amongst the continent's sprawling mountain ranges or beside refreshing waters and soak up the charms of the region.
When many think about mountain vacations in Europe, Switzerland comes to mind-and for a good reason. It shares the Alps with seven other countries, including France, Italy, and Germany, and is home to some of the most famous mountain peaks: Matterhorn, Jungfrau, Rigi, and Titlis, to name a few. A rail vacation in the Swiss Alps promises stunning sites and exciting excursions, from hiking to scenic rail journeys on some of Europe's most famous trains, such as the Glacier Express. Switzerland has some famous lakes of its own, too, and a culinary cruise on Lake Lugano or a leisure cruise on Lake Lucerne are memorable moments on summer mountain vacations-and in winter, too.
For a relaxing vacation with a twist, consider a stunning holiday to the beautiful lakes in Europe. Italy's Lake Como may be the most famous, but Lake Garda is one of Italy's best-kept secrets, as is Lake Maggiore. Other popular destinations for Europe lakes and mountains holidays include Scotland, home to its iconic mountain, Ben Nevis-best seen from the Jacobite Steam Train's rail cars-and mysterious Loch Ness, and Slovenia' Lake Bled, nestled in the Julian Alps. With more than 500,000 lakes and numerous peaks and valleys, options abound for rail vacation to European mountain towns and lakeside hamlets.
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Majestic lochs and glens await on this Scottish escape as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Traveling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle rail lines, we discover historic castles, sail along glistening lochs, and stay in vibrant cities. Admire the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on the world-famous Jacobite Steam train journey through the...
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If there is one thing Switzerland is known for, it is its otherworldly mountain scenes. The Swiss Alps are an icon, and when views of them are combined with stays in charming resort towns and rides aboard some of the world's most scenic railways, it is the recipe for an unforgettable vacation. Begin in Zurich with a day to get acclimated to the...
(83 reviews)Discover the diverse regions of Switzerland on this 11-day vacation. This trip, which takes you on a variety of Swiss rail lines, is a train lover's dream. Filled with twists and turns along rivers and mountainsides, you can relax and enjoy stunning views only available via rail. You'll view stunning landscapes such as the Bernese Oberland,...
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Uncover the amazing scenery of mountainous Switzerland from alpine peaks to brilliant blue lakes. Experience the best of this incredible European country on an escorted grand tour, exploring stunning lakes and awe-inspiring mountains. Journey on some of its most iconic trains, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass...
Spend a week enveloped in the delights of Switzerland on this roundtrip journey, bookended by time in the lakeside city of Zürich. From well-located bases in Zürich, Zermatt and the Engadine Valley, the nation's most incredible adventures are within reach. Find yourself immersed in history while touring St. Gallen, and discover the timeless...
(240 reviews)Experience the best of Switzerland on this unforgettable round-trip from Zürich, unveiling a new perspective on this small but stunning European country. Explore iconic cities such as Lucerne and Zürich, cruise across shimmering lakes and enjoy four spectacular journeys on Switzerland's famed trains, including the Glacier Express and Bernina...
(36 reviews)Bask in boundless displays of jaw-dropping views on a spectacular First Class vacation through the Alps. Soak up the atmosphere of historic Munich on a beer tour, marvel at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle and indulge in a Mozart concert dinner in Salzburg after a tour. Enjoy a cruise in the Austrian Lake District and explore charming...
Explore Norway's iconic mountains, glaciers and fjords, and discover Swedish Lapland's untamed wilderness on this epic vacation. Soak up hallmarks of regional culture and set out on each and every one of the great Scandinavian rail experiences, crossing the Arctic Circle to the "Land of the Midnight Sun." This ultimate tour combines...
(28 reviews)Join us on a journey crossing the length of Norway from Oslo to the Arctic Circle. Set out on four of the country's world-renowned rail routes - the Flåm, Bergen, Nordland and Rauma Railways - and cruise across Geirangerfjord, discovering otherworldly landscapes and stunning archipelagos en route. On this exceptional tour, we experience a taste...
(21 reviews)Find yourself steeped in luxury and surrounded by tradition on this memorable tour of Italy. Explore various regions throughout the country, from Como in the Italian alps near the Swiss border to the farmlands of Tuscany and the beautiful cities alongside the Amalfi Coast. A thoughtfully composed mixture of guided touring, optional excursions...
Experience the beauty of Norway, from its natural wonders to charming cities, on this rail tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through the impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a sensational fjordland...
Experience the wonders of two countries on one spectacular exploration of Switzerland and northern Italy. Explore Lake Lucerne, including a trip to Mount Rigi's summit on Europe's first mountain railway, from a lakefront hotel in Weggis before embarking on one of Switzerland's lesser-known yet equally spectacular alpine railways, the Gotthard...
Oct 20, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
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Oct 10, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Follow in the footsteps of travel influencer Michael Downie as you uncover Switzerland on a 15-day vacation featuring the convenience of a Swiss Travel Pass.
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Sep 05, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Step into the pages of history while unveiling Europe’s best examples of ancient palaces, showcasing a range of architectural styles in spellbinding locations.
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Sep 03, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
If you crave a change of scenery this winter, join a well-planned seasonal vacation featuring one of these three top destinations to spend the holidays.
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